How do I take care of myself?
If you have lasting symptoms of depersonalization-derealization disorder, your priority should be to seek treatment from a mental healthcare professional. You’ll likely need several visits initially, and then regular follow-ups with a psychologist and occasional follow-ups with a psychiatrist. Your psychiatrist help find the right treatment for your specific situation and ensure that the side effects are manageable. Your psychologist will use talk therapy to teach you skills to cope with your symptoms and gain insight into your symptom triggers.
In the meantime, take your medications as prescribed and try to be gentle with yourself. It’s OK if you can’t find words to accurately describe your experience. And, while it’s natural to worry about your health, try not to dwell on it. Paced breathing that involves a long exhale or meditation can calm your worries.
What can’t I eat or drink?
If you have depersonalization-derealization disorder, it’s a good idea to avoid substance use. Drugs and alcohol can bring about symptoms of depersonalization and derealization. They may also interact with your medications. Be honest with your mental healthcare team about when and how you use substances. They can provide the support you need to help you quit, safely.
When should I see my healthcare provider?
Your providers will set up regular follow-up appointments to monitor your well-being, lingering symptoms and potential side effects of treatment. But there may be times when you have a question or need support and you don’t have an appointment. Don’t hesitate to reach out if your symptoms get worse. If you’re worried that you may hurt yourself or someone else, get help right away. In the United States, you can dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or 911 for emergency assistance, or go to the closest emergency room.
What questions should I ask my healthcare provider?
It’s important that you feel comfortable asking your healthcare provider questions. But sometimes, people freeze when a provider asks them if they have any questions. It can help to bring a list of questions in with you. You might want to ask:
- How long will it take for me to feel like myself again?
- What side effects should I expect from treatment?
- For how long will I need medication and/or therapy?
- If I have questions or concerns, how would you like me to contact you?
- What should I do if my symptoms get worse? What if it’s after hours or on the weekend?
A note from Cleveland Clinic
It can be easy to feel alone if you have depersonalization-derealization disorder. Maybe you feel disconnected from yourself or the world around you. Or you might feel like you’re living in a dream, or looking at life through thick, foggy glass. And those feelings can be isolating. Your mental health care team is there to help you. But so are your family and friends — even if they struggle to understand your reality. They don’t have to understand your experience to love you. Let them know what you need from them so they know how to help you.
